Calcium and Magnesium Deficiencies

...more common than you might think...

Calcium is a mineral that is absolutely necessary for life. Your bones and teeth are made with calcium and many of the chemical reactions in your body, including your jaws, must use calcium to work.

If you do not eat enough calcium, or if your body does not absorb enough calcium, you will have many different problems. One of the first signs of calcium deficiency is muscle cramping, muscle irritation, eye twitching and more. Calcium deficiency can also contribute to muscle headaches,jaw pain, and TMJ Headaches.

With long term calcium deficiency, your bones become brittle and can break easily. This is the cause of osteoporosis. Since strong bones are needed to support teeth, a deficiency of calcium can result in early periodontal disease and tooth loss.

Calcium is not always absorbed easily. It is considered best to take calcium supplements when eating your normal meals because there is an acid environment in your stomach when you eat. The stomach acid helps dissolve and absorb the calcium.

Dairy products are rich in calcium, but leafy greens are by far the best source. If you are allergic to dairy products and have an aversion to eating your greens, consider taking calcium supplements when you eat.

Even though dietary surveys suggest that many Americans do not consume recommended amounts of magnesium, symptoms of severe magnesium deficiency are rarely seen in the US. However, there is concern about the prevalence of sub-optimal magnesium stores in the body.

For many people, dietary intake may not be high enough to promote an optimal magnesium status, which may be protective against disorders such as cardiovascular disease and immune dysfunction

Early signs of magnesium deficiency include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and weakness. As magnesium deficiency worsens, numbness, tingling, muscle contractions and cramps, seizures, personality changes, abnormal heart rhythms, and coronary spasms can occur

Good dietary sources of magnesium are whole grains, legumes, and vegetables (especially dark-green, leafy vegetables).

If you have a problem with chronically tight muscles and muscle spasms, a calcium or magnesium deficiency may be contributing to the problem. Consider addressing these as an approach to your overall health.

Morgan Smith, DC

11-01-2007